Image Dental Blog

 
 

Thursday, January 28, 2016

Gum Disease Misconceptions and Half-Truths

According to the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP), an estimated 75 percent of the American population suffers from some form of gum disease, from minor cases of gingivitis to the more severe form of gum disease known as periodontitis. Despite this prevalence, only three percent seek treatment for their case of gum disease.

It is possible that many patients fail to seek the necessary periodontal care because they are not aware of the potentially dangerous and long-term implications of untreated gum disease. The following are some of the most common misconceptions about gum disease to help you get on track with your oral health.

Gum Disease Misconceptions

1. Gum disease is not common.
This is actually not true as indicated by the American Academy of Periodontology. Additionally, the CDC notes that more than 50 percent of adults above 30 years suffer from some form of gum disease.

2. Gum disease is a normal and natural part of aging.
While gum disease is more common in seniors, it can affect anyone, including teens and young adults alike. It is caused by the buildup of dental plaque due to poor oral hygiene, though seniors with receding gums are at higher risk. Other factors that make seniors more prone to gum disease include dry mouth, smoking, and certain medications.

3. Gum disease is a mild condition that will resolve on its own.
Gum disease develops moderately over time, and may not necessarily show symptoms along the way. But this does not make it any less serious. A little soreness and redness on the gums can develop into pockets at the base of the teeth, which are filled with bacteria, causing your teeth to loosen and fall off. Regular dental cleaning is important to remove tartar and plaque under the gums.

4. No cavities means no gum disease.
As mentioned before, the development of gum disease is unnoticeable. It is painless, and many people with incredibly healthy teeth may be unknowingly suffering from the earliest form of gum disease (gingivitis). Signs include redness, inflammation, and easy bleeding.

5. Gum disease has no connection to your overall health.
In severe cases of periodontal disease, bacteria in the mouth can spread to other parts of your body causing conditions like stroke and heart disease. Periodontal disease also makes it harder for diabetes patients to manage their blood sugar levels, plus it poses a threat to people with osteoporosis or respiratory diseases.

Gum disease is a serious concern, and people should be more willing to visit a periodontist to get the condition under control. Even cases of bad breath or bleeding gums during pregnancy should not be taken lightly, as they could be signs of more serious oral concerns.


Labels: , ,

0 Comments :

Post a Comment

Subscribe to Post Comments [Atom]

<< Home

 
   
 
2009 © Image Dental | 1310 Bison Ave. Newport Beach, CA 92660 | (949) 760-0363 | Dentist in Newport Beach near Irvine & Orange County CA in the Bluffs Center